Ecosystem Sustenance: Pankshin Varsity launches tree planting initiative
By Emmanuel Yatai
July 14, 2026
To sustain its ecosystem and return the institution to its former glory, the Federal University of Education Pankshin (FUEP), Plateau, has launched the planting of 300 trees around the school.
Speaking at the launch on Tuesday in Pankshin, Prof. Joel Wannang, Vice Chancellor (V-C) of the university, said tree planting was another way of maintaining and sustaining the ecosystem.
Wannang said, though the exercise could appear ordinary, however, it was about planting hope and making the future greener and better.
“In the late 70’s, this university was the envy of many people because of the well planted and arranged trees. You would mistake the school for a foreign institution,” the V-C said.
According to him, trees are natural gifts to man because they beautify the environment, improve air quality, and provide shades and peace.
“Trees are silent guardians of life. Every tree you plant today is a lasting investment in this university.
“It’s not only about planting the trees, its about nurturing and sustaining them so that they can serve the purpose they are meant for.
“Plant a tree today, plant life and plant a future,” he admonished.
Also speaking at the event, Mr Inuwa Chihir, Director of Physical Planning at the university, who spoke on environmental sustainability, said the trees people were enjoying today were planted and maintained by others.
“If we work and don’t sustain what we plant, there will be danger, we shall not have any story to tell tomorrow,” Chihir said.
He explained that the trees were environment- friendly, adding that it was the responsibility of everyone to maintain and keep away animals and other pests from destroying them.
On his part, Dr Dekom Bako, Chairman, Environmental Sanitation and Beautification, said the institution was not merely planting trees
but planting hope, preserving the environment, and investing in the lives of generations unborn.
According to Bako, it is the vision of the school’s management to transform FUEP into a citadel of knowledge by creating a serene, clean, safe, and friendly competitive environment for learning, research and innovations.
“Green campus promotes healthy living, improve learning atmosphere.
“Scientific evidence has shown that a green environment improves mental well-being, reduces stress, enhances concentration, and creates a peaceful atmosphere that supports teaching and learning.
“Plant a tree, protect trees, nurture trees, and let every member of this university become an ambassador of environmental sustainability,” he added.
In a vote of thanks, the Registrar, Mr Longtong Yadok, appreciated the school’s management and all those who contributed physically, mentally, and financially to make the event a huge success.
Yadok expressed confidence that the vice chancellor’s vision of making the university a top citadel of knowledge would be actualised. (NAN)
